Successful treatment of low back pain and neck pain after a motor vehicle accident despite litigation.

Abstract

This prospective study evaluated 39 consecutive patients with low back pain (LBP) or neck pain that resulted from a motor vehicle accident who had litigation pending. Patients completed a McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) to quantify pain and an Oswestry Low Back Disability Questionnaire (OSW) to quantify function and were interviewed regarding medications and work status at initial and final visits. Thirty-three patients completed an MPQ at initial and final visits. Pain decreased in 29 (88%) and increased in four (12%). Thirty-eight patients completed an OSW at initial and final visits. Function improved in 34 and worsened in four. The authors observed statistically significant improvements in pain, function, and medication use. Patients with low back pain or neck pain resulting from a motor vehicle accident showed a statistically significant improvement with treatment despite ongoing litigation.